View source for Donkey Kong Country 3

{{Short description|1996 video game}}
{{good article}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2025}}
{{Use British English|date=February 2025}}
{{Infobox video game
| title = Donkey Kong Country 3:<br>Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!
| image = dkc3 snes boxart.jpg
| caption = North American SNES box art
| developer = [[Rare (company)|Rare]]
| publisher = [[Nintendo]]
| director = [[Tim Stamper]]<ref name=credits>{{cite web|url=http://www.mobygames.com/game/snes/donkey-kong-country-3-dixie-kongs-double-trouble/credits|title=Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble! (1996) SNES credits|publisher=MobyGames|access-date=2 July 2016|archive-date=22 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022025333/https://www.mobygames.com/game/snes/donkey-kong-country-3-dixie-kongs-double-trouble/credits|url-status=live}}</ref>
| producer = Andrew Collard<ref name=credits />
| designer = Andrew Collard<ref name=credits /><br>Paul Weaver<ref name=credits />
| artist = Mark Stevenson<ref name=credits /><br>Neil Crook<ref name=credits />
| composer = [[Eveline Fischer]]{{efn|Additional music by [[David Wise (composer)|David Wise]]}}<ref name=credits />
| programmer = Mark Wilson<ref name=credits />
| series = ''[[Donkey Kong]]''
| platforms = [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super NES]], [[Game Boy Advance]]
| released = '''Super NES'''{{vgrelease|NA|18 November 1996|JP|23 November 1996|PAL|13 December 1996}} '''Game Boy Advance'''{{vgrelease|EU|4 November 2005|NA|7 November 2005|JP|1 December 2005}}
| genre = [[Platform game|Platform]]
| modes = [[Single-player]], [[multiplayer]]
}}
'''''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'''''{{hsp}} is a 1996 [[platform game]] developed by [[Rare (company)|Rare]] and published by [[Nintendo]] for the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System]] (SNES). It is the third installment of the [[Donkey Kong Country (series)|''Donkey Kong Country'' series]], and serves as a sequel to 1995's ''[[Donkey Kong Country 2|Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest]]''. It was also re-released for the [[Game Boy Advance]] (GBA) in 2005. The game was made available to download on the [[Wii]]'s [[Virtual Console]] service in 2007, as well as for the [[Wii U]]'s Virtual Console in 2014.

The plot centers on [[Dixie Kong]] and her cousin, Kiddy Kong, in their attempts to save the captured [[Donkey Kong (character)|Donkey Kong]] and [[Diddy Kong]] from the series' villain [[King K. Rool]]. The game is set in the "Northern Kremisphere", a fictionalized version of [[northern Europe]] and [[Canada]]. ''Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'' utilises the same [[Silicon Graphics]] technology from its predecessors, which features the use of [[pre-rendered]] 3D imagery. The game received positive reviews upon release; critics praised the visuals and various aspects of gameplay, but noted a lack of innovation.

== Gameplay ==
[[File:Donkey Kong Country 3 gameplay.jpg|thumb|left|[[Dixie Kong]], with [[Kiddy Kong]] standing by in the background|230px]]
''Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'' is a [[platform game]] where players control [[Dixie Kong]] and her baby cousin, [[Kiddy Kong]], through 8 worlds which comprise a total of 48 levels.<ref name="overview">{{cite web|title=Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble! overview|url=http://uk.ign.com/games/donkey-kong-country-3/snes-578|website=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=19 May 2016|archive-date=21 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210121062918/https://www.ign.com/games/donkey-kong-country-3|url-status=live}}</ref>{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=9}} Many of the gameplay elements from previous games in the series mark a return in this game, such as barrels,{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=24}} [[bonus level]]s which reward the player with special "bonus coins", DK coins, animal helpers and a multiplayer mode.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=22}} Both of the two playable Kongs have unique abilities, such as Dixie's ability to slow her descent by spinning her ponytail,{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=12}} and Kiddy's ability to bounce across open water.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=14}}<ref name=JXVGBA/> The Kongs may also pick each other up to throw each other around levels; the impact of the other player-character can reveal cracked floors, hidden switches or secret areas. At any time, the player can switch Kongs during a level.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=13}}

Levels in the game include a mixture of platforming, swimming and on-rails levels. They are based around several returning themes including forests, cliff-sides, factories and mountain tops. The level design is more diverse compared to its predecessors, which includes more complex puzzles and obstacles.<ref name=kotaku/> Every level has an enemy called a Koin; each of these enemies bears the DK Coin of their respective level, holding it as a shield. As these enemies always face towards the player, they must be defeated by throwing a steel barrel{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=25}} over them so it bounces off a wall behind them in order to strike them from behind.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=22}} The game overworld is also more complex, allowing players to explore between each area instead of forcing them along a linear path. To achieve this, the game includes several vehicles such as a [[speedboat]] and [[hovercraft]] which can be used to traverse the overworld and access different worlds.<ref name="kotaku">{{cite web|last1=Bertoli|first1=Ben|title=The Best Donkey Kong Country Ever Made|url=http://www.kotaku.co.uk/2015/02/04/best-donkey-kong-country-ever-made|website=Kotaku|publisher=Future plc|access-date=19 May 2016|date=4 February 2015|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304023405/http://www.kotaku.co.uk/2015/02/04/best-donkey-kong-country-ever-made|url-status=dead}}</ref>{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=21}}

The game features "animal friends", which return from its predecessors. Returning animals include Enguarde the [[swordfish]], Squitter the [[spider]] and Squawks the [[parrot]].{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=17}} New animals include [[Ellie (Donkey Kong)|Ellie]] the [[elephant]], who can suck up water through her trunk to spray enemies with, and Parry the "parallel bird", who flies directly above the player-characters and can be used to collect out-of-reach items.<ref name=JXVGBA/> As in the previous game, players can directly control animals instead of just riding them.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=17}} Scattered around the Northern Kremisphere overworld are the [[Brothers Bear]], a family of bears who provide the players with hints, key items or other services.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=20}} Players can collect items in levels to trade with the bears for other items or to help progress to later levels;<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Donkey Kong Country 3: A Country Full of Rendered Gorillas! |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=88 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|date=November 1996 |pages=250–1}}</ref> one such item is the Bear Coin, which acts as the game's currency.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=22}} Other members from the Kong family, such as [[Wrinkly Kong]], [[Swanky Kong]], and [[Funky Kong]], can also be found around the overworld, each of whom offer their own services.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=16}}

== Plot ==
=== Characters ===
{{Further|List of Donkey Kong characters}}
The player-characters in the game are Dixie Kong, who is Diddy Kong's girlfriend, and her younger cousin, Kiddy Kong.<ref name="IGN"/> Scattered around the overworld are various other characters: Wrinkly Kong appears in "save caves", which when entered allow the player to [[saved game|save]] their game; Funky Kong plays a key role in the game, as he supplies the player with vehicles to traverse the overworld; and Swanky Kong, reappearing from the previous game, allows players to challenge Cranky Kong in a contest involving throwing balls at targets in exchange for Bear Coins.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=16}} New to the series are the Brothers Bear, thirteen [[bear]]s providing the player with services in exchange for Bear Coins, some of who are instrumental for advancing through the game.{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=20}} The main villain of the previous games, [[King K. Rool]], reappears under the moniker of "Baron K. Roolenstein".{{sfn|Rare|1996|p=5}}

=== Story ===
Shortly after the events of ''[[Diddy's Kong Quest]]'', Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong suddenly disappear in the Northern Kremisphere.<ref name=kotaku/> Dixie Kong sets off to find the pair and is joined by her cousin Kiddy Kong and aided by Funky Kong's vehicles to traverse the land. They reach Kastle KAOS, the lair of a robot named KAOS, who was thought to be the new leader of the [[Kremlings]]. After they destroy KAOS, the curtain in the background rolls up to reveal the robot was being controlled by Baron K. Roolenstein, the new moniker of King K. Rool. After the duo fights him, Donkey and Diddy pop out of the destroyed KAOS, implying they were being used to power the robot.

Dixie and Kiddy uncover the extinct [[volcanic island]] of Krematoa. They meet Boomer, an exiled member of the Brothers Bear, inside his [[Anderson shelter]]. He agrees to destroy the rocks hindering the path in exchange for bonus coins. After Dixie and Kiddy find all bonus coins and five [[cogwheel]]s hidden in Krematoa, the duo give the cogs to Boomer, who puts them into a machine which re-activates Krematoa, revealing the ''Knautilus'', K. Roolenstein's personal [[submarine]]. The Kongs board the submarine and battle against him in there, but he escapes once again.

Once the Kongs collect all DK coins, they give the coins to Funky, who in exchange gives them a [[gyrocopter]]. The duo then finds an enigmatic creature called the Banana Bird Queen, who is bound to a barrier cast by K. Roolenstein. She tells the Kongs that she can only be freed if her separated children are returned to her, and that she will rid the land of K. Rool if she is freed. The Kongs find each of her children in a cave, where one of the birds is trapped in a crystal which shatters when the Kongs complete a ''[[Simon (game)|Simon]]''-like memory game. After rescuing them and completing a large trade sequence between the Brothers Bear, the Kongs return the children to the Queen. The Queen and her children all sing, annihilating the barrier. The Queen proceeds to chase K. Rool, who is fleeing in a hovercraft. When she catches up to him, she drops a giant [[eggshell]] on top of him, which Dixie and Kiddy land on. The Kongs repeatedly knock on the shell, annoying the captured K. Rool.

== Development and release ==
[[file:Tim_and_Chris_Stamper_outside_the_FortuneFish_offices.jpg|alt=|left|thumb|[[Tim Stamper]] {{small|(right)}} directed ''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'']]

Development of ''Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'' began shortly after the release of ''Diddy's Kong Quest'',<ref name="years"/> utilising the same [[Silicon Graphics]] (SGI) and Advanced Computer Modelling (ACM) rendering technology as its predecessors,<ref name=overview/><ref name="years">{{cite web|last1=Goergan|first1=Andy|title=Donkey Kong Country, Through the Years|url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/feature/36539/donkey-kong-country-through-the-years|publisher=Nintendo World Report|access-date=6 February 2016|date=14 February 2014|archive-date=3 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703015857/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/feature/36539/donkey-kong-country-through-the-years|url-status=live}}</ref> in which pre-rendered 3D animations are turned into 2D sprites.<ref name=GS>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/donkey-kong-country-2-diddys-kong-quest-review/1900-6171662/ |access-date=1 January 2015 |work=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |title=Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest review |last1=Provo |first1=Frank |date=27 May 2007 |archive-date=23 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123191820/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/donkey-kong-country-2-diddys-kong-quest-review/1900-6171662/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Rare (company)|Rare]] founder [[Tim Stamper]] re-took the role as the game's director, whereas Rare staffers Andrew Collard and Paul Weaver designed the game.<ref name=development>{{cite web|last1=McFarren|first1=Damien|title=Month Of Kong: The Making Of Donkey Kong Country|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/02/month_of_kong_the_making_of_donkey_kong_country|website=[[Nintendo Life]]|date=27 February 2014|access-date=12 April 2015|archive-date=31 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131130533/http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/02/month_of_kong_the_making_of_donkey_kong_country|url-status=live}}</ref> The game's soundtrack was composed by [[Eveline Fischer]], with additional tracks by series composer [[David Wise (composer)|David Wise]], and Fischer producing most of the game's music.<ref name="Rare Scribes">{{cite web |access-date=15 September 2017 |url=http://www.rareware.com/extra/scribes/scribes_content.html |title=Scribes |publisher=Rare |date= February 9, 2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060213091526/http://www.rareware.com/extra/scribes/scribes_content.html |archive-date=13 February 2006}}</ref>

''Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'' was first released in North America on 18 November 1996,<ref>{{cite magazine |author=<!-- not stated --> |date=October 1996 |title=Release Schedule |url=https://archive.gamehistory.org/item/501e1b8d-b718-4a15-8a1b-354c892a06c1 |magazine=[[GameWeek Magazine|Videogame Advisor]] |publisher=Cyberactive Publishing, Inc. |volume=2 |issue=10 |page=51}}</ref> followed by Japan on 23 November<ref>{{cite web |title=スーパードンキーコング３　謎のクレミス島 |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/n02/shvc/p_a3cj/index.html |website=nintendo.co.jp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970605015134/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/n02/shvc/p_a3cj/index.html |archive-date=June 5, 1997 |date=1996 |trans-title=Super Donkey Kong 3: Mysterious Kremis Island}}</ref> and Europe and Australia on 13 December.<ref name="CTW617">{{cite magazine |title=CTW Games Guide |magazine=Computer Trade Weekly |location=United Kingdom |date=9 December 1996 |issue=617 |page=25}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble|url=http://www.ign.com/games/donkey-kong-country-3/snes-578|website=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=2 June 2016|archive-date=3 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160603063953/http://www.ign.com/games/donkey-kong-country-3/snes-578|url-status=live}}</ref> It was later made available to download on the [[Wii]] [[Virtual Console]] service in 2007, as well as for the [[Wii U]] Virtual Console in 2014.<ref>{{cite web|title=Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble - Virtual Console|url=https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/Fil-Z4oEZ3c6_edKKvtG9ysKNbXBHjmg|publisher=Nintendo|access-date=2 June 2016|archive-date=22 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222150555/http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/Fil-Z4oEZ3c6_edKKvtG9ysKNbXBHjmg|url-status=dead}}</ref> It was later released on the [[Nintendo Switch]] via the [[Nintendo Classics]] service on 18 December 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/donkey-kong-country-3-leads-december-2020s-nintendo-switch-online-snes-and-nes-games|title=Donkey Kong Country 3 Leads December 2020's Nintendo Switch Online SNES and NES Games - IGN|date=15 December 2020|via=www.ign.com|access-date=22 December 2020|archive-date=22 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231022053553/https://www.ign.com/articles/donkey-kong-country-3-leads-december-2020s-nintendo-switch-online-snes-and-nes-games|url-status=live}}</ref> While the game sold over 3.5 million units worldwide,<ref name=kotaku/> it has been suggested that its sales were hurt by its November release, which was when [[Nintendo 64]] console was popular after its September launch.<ref name=IGN/> 1.7 million copies were sold in Japan and 1.12 million copies sold in the United States.<ref>{{cite web|title=Japan Platinum Game Chart|url=http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-JPPlatinum.shtml|publisher=The Magic Box|access-date=16 May 2016|archive-date=17 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017061224/http://the-magicbox.com/Chart-JPPlatinum.shtml|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=US Platinum Videogame Chart |url=http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-USPlatinum.shtml |publisher=The Magic Box |access-date=16 May 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070421003854/http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-USPlatinum.shtml |archive-date=21 April 2007}}</ref>

A port was later released for the [[Game Boy Advance]] in November 2005, which includes a new soundtrack composed by Wise; the team originally had a "vague hope" to have both the original and the new soundtrack in that version, but this proved unfeasible due to cartridge and time constraints.<ref name="stamped out">{{Cite web|url=https://www.dkvine.com/?p=features&page=stamped_dkcgba|publisher=DK Vine|title=Stamped Out: The Donkey Kong Country GBA Trilogy|access-date=2018-12-23|archive-date=2020-07-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200711100709/https://www.dkvine.com/?p=features&page=stamped_dkcgba|url-status=live}}</ref>

The SNES version also included an unlockable Christmas theme for the bonus levels. By entering "Merry" on the file select screen, the stars and bananas will be changed to bells and presents and the background music will change to Christmas music.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Baird|first=Scott|url=https://www.thegamer.com/nintendo-christmas-stages-donkey-kong-country-3/|title=Nintendo Explains How To Enter The Christmas Stages In Donkey Kong Country 3|date=21 December 2020|website=The Gamer|access-date=10 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220614060541/https://www.thegamer.com/nintendo-christmas-stages-donkey-kong-country-3/|archive-date=14 June 2022}}</ref>

==Reception==
===Contemporary===
{{Video game reviews
<!-- Aggregators etc. -->
| title = {{Dark mode invert|Contemporary SNES reception}}
| GR = 83%<ref name=GR1>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588284-donkey-kong-country-3-dixie-kongs-double-trouble/index.html |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble'' for SNES - GameRankings |publisher=[[GameRankings]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141016125930/http://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588284-donkey-kong-country-3-dixie-kongs-double-trouble/index.html |access-date=6 October 2009 |archive-date=2014-10-16}}</ref>

| Allgame = 4.5/5<ref name="allgamereview">{{cite web |url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=2477&tab=review |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble'' - Review |last=Weiss |first=Brett Alan |publisher=[[AllGame]] |access-date=5 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141212054414/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=2477&tab=review | archive-date=12 December 2014}}</ref>
| CVG = 4/5<ref name=CVGSNES>{{cite magazine |last=Davies |first=Paul |date=January 1997 |url=https://archive.org/details/Computer_and_Video_Games_Issue_182_1997-01_EMAP_Images_GB/page/n81/mode/2up |title=''Dixie Kong's Double Trouble'' |magazine=[[Computer and Video Games]] |pages=82–83 |issue=182 |access-date=7 July 2021}}</ref>
| EGM = 8/10, 8/10, 8.5/10, 8/10<ref name=EGM91>{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-091-february-1997/page/n65/mode/2up |title=Review Crew: ''Donkey Kong Country 3'' |first1=Shawn |last1=Smith |first2=Dan |last2=Hsu |first3=Crispin |last3=Boyer |author4=Sushi-X |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |issue=91 |date=February 1997 |page=64}}</ref>
| Fam = 8/10, 8/10, 7/10, 7/10<ref name="famitsu">{{cite magazine|magazine=[[Famitsu|Weekly Famitsu]]|title=New Game Cross Review|date=November 29, 1996|publisher=[[ASCII Corporation]]|language=Japanese|issue=415|page=35
|last1=Noda
|first1=Sawadhi
|last2=Uchisawa
|first2=Goro
|last3=Nagano
|first3=Isabella
|last4=Masuda
|first4=Ninja}}</ref>

| GI = 9/10<ref name="GameInformer">{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/game-informer-issue-44-december-1996/page/n69/mode/2up |title=At a Glance: ''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble'' |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |publisher=Sunrise Publications |date=December 1996 |issue=44 |page=68}}</ref>
| Hyper = 88%<ref name=Hyper>{{cite magazine |last=Polak |first=Steve |date=February 1997 |url=https://archive.org/details/hyper-040/page/48/mode/2up |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble'' |magazine=[[Hyper (magazine)|Hyper]] |issue=40 |pages=48–49 |access-date=6 July 2021}}</ref>

| NGen = 3/5<ref name="NGen25">{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/NextGeneration25Jan1997/page/n189/mode/2up |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3'' |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]] |issue=25 |publisher=[[Imagine Media]] |date=January 1997 |page=188}}</ref>


| ONM = 98/100<ref name=NMSSNES>{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/nintendo-magazine-system-uk-51-december-1996/page/24/mode/2up |last1=McComb |first1=David |last2=Upchurch |first2=Dave |date=December 1996 |title=''Dixie Kong's Double Trouble'' |magazine=[[Official Nintendo Magazine|Nintendo Magazine System]] |issue=51 |page=24}}</ref>

| SGP = 5/5<ref>{{cite magazine |author=Majorie Bros |date=February 1997 |url=https://archive.org/details/SuperGamePower_Ano_03_No._035_1997-02_Nova_Cultural_BR_pt/page/n51/mode/2up |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie's Kong Double Trouble!'' |language=pt |magazine={{ill|Super GamePower|pt}} |issue=35 |pages=52–57 |access-date=6 July 2021}}</ref>
}}

The game received positive reviews upon release, holding an aggregate score of 83% from [[GameRankings]].<ref name=GR1/> ''[[Official Nintendo Magazine|Nintendo Magazine System]]'' (''NMS'') called it "king of the Kongs", surpassing its predecessors in every area.<ref name=NMSSNES/> Doctor Devon of ''[[GamePro]]'' saw it as one of the best 16-bit games and a worthy [[swan song]] for the SNES.<ref name=GPro100>{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/GamePro_Issue_100_Volume_09_Number_01_1997-01_IDG_Publishing_US/page/n121/mode/2up |title=Super NES ProReview: ''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble'' |magazine=[[GamePro]] |issue=100 |publisher=[[IDG]] |date=January 1997 |page=120}}</ref> ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'' (''EGM'') contributors praised its polish and entertainment value, with Shawn Smith calling it a library must-have.<ref name=EGM91/> Paul Davies of ''[[Computer and Video Games]]'' viewed it as the "pinnacle of achievement for the Super NES", though he docked points for familiarity.<ref name=CVGSNES/> ''[[AllGame]]''{{'}}s Brett Alan Weiss and ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]'' commended its quality but noted it offered "more of the same", appealing most to series fans.<ref name="allgamereview"/><ref name="NGen25"/> ''EGM'' editors named ''Donkey Kong Country 3'' a runner-up for both Super NES Game of the Year (behind ''[[Tetris Attack]]'') and Side-Scrolling Game of the Year (behind ''[[Guardian Heroes]]'').<ref>{{cite magazine |title=The Best of '96|magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=92|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|date=March 1997|pages=86, 88}}</ref>

''Donkey Kong Country 3''{{'}}s graphics were lauded as the best on the SNES{{whom?|date=August 2025}}, surpassing its predecessors with sharper, more detailed visuals and fluid animations. Reviewers consistently highlighted the game's stunning visuals, with ''NMS'' calling them "astounding" and the "most detailed, beautifully animated Super NES graphics".<ref name=NMSSNES/> Doctor Devon described backgrounds as "sharp and colorful", with underwater levels "suitable for framing".<ref name=GPro100/> Weiss noted the graphics were so impressive they "have to be seen to be believed",<ref name="allgamereview"/> and Steve Polak of ''[[Hyper (magazine)|Hyper]]'' emphasized the "lush" environments, like snowfields and waterfalls, which used advanced effects for a "kaleidoscope of colour".<ref name=Hyper/> ''EGM'' and ''Next Generation'' also praised the crisper, more detailed visuals compared to ''[[Donkey Kong Country 2]]'',<ref name=EGM91/><ref name="NGen25"/> with Davies noting flawless animation quality.<ref name=CVGSNES/> The reviewers in ''[[Famitsu]]'' also praised the graphics, saying they were on par with games released for newer systems such as the [[PlayStation]] and [[Sega Saturn]].<ref name="famitsu" />

The soundtrack and sound effects were considered excellent, enhancing the game's atmosphere despite their similarity to previous entries. ''NMS'' praised the "brilliant theme tune" and "spot-on jingles" that suited each level, complemented by top sound effects.<ref name=NMSSNES/> Doctor Devon noted a "dense sonic atmosphere" with great music and effects, including unique character themes like Blue Bear's "bluesy groove".<ref name=GPro100/> Weiss likened the music to a professional orchestral recording,<ref name="allgamereview"/> while Sushi-X of ''EGM'' appreciated the "hip sounds" that contributed to the game’s polish.<ref name=EGM91/>

Critics commended the retention of the series' hallmark tight, responsive platforming gameplay with added depth from new features, but noted the lack of significant innovation. ''NMS'' highlighted the "slick, finely-tuned action" and "massive gameplay variety".<ref name=NMSSNES/> Doctor Devon praised the "effortless" controls, with new mechanics like Kiddy Kong's floor-bashing and Ellie's barrel-throwing adding variety.<ref name=GPro100/> ''Next Generation'' noted the elimination of control "slop" from earlier titles, making movement precise and intuitive.<ref name="NGen25"/> However, Weiss and ''[[Game Informer]]'' pointed out that the gameplay stuck closely to the ''Donkey Kong Country'' formula,<ref name="allgamereview"/><ref name="GameInformer"/> with ''EGM''{{'}}s Dan Hsu noting some levels were too linear, lacking openness.<ref name=EGM91/> Polak acknowledged it as "same shit, different wrapper", but argued this was not detrimental given the series' quality.<ref name=Hyper/>

The introduction of [[Role-playing video game|RPG]]-style elements, particularly through the Brothers Bear, was appreciated for adding depth and variety. Davies and ''NMS''{{'}}s Dave Upchurch praised the "RPG-ish" elements, such as interactions with the Brothers Bear, which added a pleasing depth without alienating platforming fans.<ref name=CVGSNES/><ref name=NMSSNES/> Polak highlighted the need to collect special objects, such as the different coins, to access hidden areas, enhancing exploration.<ref name=Hyper/> The addition of new characters like Kiddy Kong and Ellie, along with vehicles like hovercraft, was noted by Doctor Devon and Polak as a fresh twist,<ref name=Hyper/><ref name=GPro100/> though Weiss suggested these additions did not feel "startlingly unique".<ref name="allgamereview"/> Doctor Devon warned that the new characters' contribution to the game's tone of "extreme youthfulness" may not appeal to some, and Polak also described Ellie as "sickeningly cute", but said her fear of mice added challenge.<ref name=Hyper/><ref name=GPro100/>

The game was said to offer a substantial challenge with its large levels, numerous secrets, and high replay value. ''NMS'' emphasized the game's "huge levels" and "stiff challenge", with secret bonuses and hidden banana birds ensuring long-term engagement. ''NMS''{{'}}s David McComb noted a gradual difficulty increase, becoming frustrating by later encounters.<ref name=NMSSNES/> Polak suggested it was easier than ''Donkey Kong Country 2'', possibly targeting a younger audience, but still engaging.<ref name=Hyper/> Sushi-X and ''Game Informer'' highlighted the high replay value due to secret areas and bonus rounds, appealing to completionists.<ref name=EGM91/><ref name="GameInformer"/>

Criticism was focused on the game being too similar to its predecessors, lacking the groundbreaking innovation of the original ''Donkey Kong Country'', but it was regarded as a high-quality extension of the series for its refinements. Weiss and ''Next Generation'' noted that the game "leaves well enough alone", sticking closely to the established formula, which they saw as a strength for fans but a limitation for those seeking novelty.<ref name="allgamereview"/><ref name="NGen25"/> ''EGM''{{'}}s Hsu and Crispin Boyer described it as "more of the same", with Boyer calling it an extension rather than a true sequel.<ref name=EGM91/> Doctor Devon acknowledged a "been there, beat that" attitude would be invoked in some,<ref name=GPro100/> while Polak admitted it was not a massive leap forward but defended its quality as a polished platformer.<ref name=Hyper/>

===Game Boy Advance version===
{{Video game reviews
| title = Game Boy Advance reception
| GR = 75%<ref name=GR2>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/gba/928294-donkey-kong-country-3/index.html |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3'' for Game Boy Advance - GameRankings |access-date=6 October 2009 |publisher=[[GameRankings]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304001716/http://www.gamerankings.com/gba/928294-donkey-kong-country-3/index.html |archive-date=2016-03-04}}</ref>
| MC = 77/100<ref name=MetaGBA>{{Cite web |url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/gba/donkeykongcountry3 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090223153419/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/gba/donkeykongcountry3 |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3'': Reviews |website=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[Fandom (website)|Fandom, Inc.]] |archive-date=23 February 2009 |access-date=26 May 2024 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

| EuroG = 7/10<ref name=EuroGGBA>{{cite web |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=61959 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060428224215/http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=61959 |title=Review - ''Donkey Kong Country 3'' |last=Reed |first=Kristan |website=[[Eurogamer]] |date=30 November 2005 |archive-date=28 April 2006 |access-date=13 June 2025 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

| GamePro = 3/5<ref name=pro>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/49650/donkey-kong-country-3/ |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3'' Review for Game Boy Advance |author=Rice Burner |magazine=[[GamePro]] |date=7 October 2005 |access-date=6 October 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081206164000/http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/49650/donkey-kong-country-3/ |archive-date=6 December 2008}}</ref>

| GSpot = 7.8/10<ref name=GSpot>{{cite web |last=Provo |first=Frank |url=http://www.gamespot.com/gba/action/donkeykongcountry3/review.html |title=Donkey Kong Country 3 review for Game Boy Advance |website=[[GameSpot]] |date=14 November 2005 |access-date=10 October 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060418080923/http://www.gamespot.com/gba/action/donkeykongcountry3/review.html |archive-date=18 April 2006}}</ref>

| GSpy = 4/5<ref name="GSpy">{{cite web |last1=Stratton |first1=Bryan |title=Donkey Kong Country 3 review |url=http://gba.gamespy.com/gameboy-advance/donkey-kong-country-3/665921p1.html |website=GameSpy |publisher=IGN |access-date=20 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120226055357/http://gba.gamespy.com/gameboy-advance/donkey-kong-country-3/665921p1.html |archive-date=26 February 2012 |date=10 November 2005}}</ref>

| GI= 8.5/10<ref name=GIGBA>{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/game-informer-issue-151-november-2005/page/182/mode/2up |title=Handheld Quickies: ''Donkey Kong Country 3'' |last=Helgeson |first=Matt |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |publisher=[[GameStop]] |date=November 2005 |issue=151 |page=182}}</ref>


| IGN = 7.5/10<ref name=IGN2>{{cite web |last=Harris |first=Craig |url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/665/665438p1.html |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3'' Review |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |website=[[IGN]] |date=8 November 2005 |access-date=6 October 2009 |archive-date=24 November 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051124030632/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/665/665438p1.html |url-status=live}}</ref>


| JXV = 18/20<ref name=JXVGBA>{{cite web |title=Test de jeu ''Donkey Kong Country 3'' |url=http://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0000/00005911_test.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051124170946/http://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0000/00005911_test.htm |website=[[Jeuxvideo.com]] |access-date=20 May 2016 |language=fr |date=8 November 2005 |archive-date=24 November 2005 |url-status=live}}</ref>

| NP = 8/10<ref name=NinPow>{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/nintendo-power-issue-198-december-2005/page/116/mode/2up |title=Reviews: ''Donkey Kong Country 3'' |last=Hoffman |first=Chris |magazine=[[Nintendo Power]] |publisher=[[Nintendo of America]] |date=December 2005 |issue=198 |page=116}}</ref>

| PALGN = 8/10<ref name=PALGN>{{cite web |url=http://palgn.com.au/article.php?id=3404 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070907082425/http://palgn.com.au/article.php?id=3404 |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3'' Review |last=Marrow |first=Mark |website=PALGN |date=13 November 2005 |archive-date=7 September 2007 |access-date=13 June 2025 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

}}
The Game Boy Advance version was also met with "generally favorable" reviews according to [[Metacritic]].<ref name=MetaGBA/> Reviewing the Game Boy Advance version, Frank Provo of ''[[GameSpot]]'' stated that the graphics were colourful, vibrant and "top-notch". Although he stated that the Game Boy Advance port's music was "catchy" and "just as good as the originals", he noted that devotees to the original SNES game may not like it.<ref name=GSpot/> A reviewer from ''GamePro'' thought that the graphics appeared "washed out" on the system's backlit screen, stating that the pre-rendered sprites did not "show up very well".<ref name=pro/> A reviewer from ''Jeuxvideo'' asserted that the various aspects of gameplay made ''Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'' a hallmark of the series.<ref name=JXVGBA/>
{{-}}

===Retrospective===
{{Video game reviews
| title = SNES retrospective reception
| EuroG = 7/10<ref name=EuroGSNES>{{cite web |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/vc_roundup_080108_wii |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024174149/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/vc_roundup_080108_wii |title=Virtual Console Roundup Review |last=Whitehead |first=Dan |website=[[Eurogamer]] |date=8 January 2008 |archive-date=24 October 2012 |access-date=13 June 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| IGN = 8.5/10<ref name=IGN>{{cite web |last=Thomas |first=Lucas |url=http://retro.ign.com/articles/848/848225p1.html |title=''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'' review |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |website=[[IGN]] |date=4 January 2008 |access-date=6 October 2009 |archive-date=16 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120816195024/http://retro.ign.com/articles/848/848225p1.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
| JXV = 16/20<ref name=JXVSNES>{{cite web |url=http://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0001/00012181-donkey-kong-country-3-test.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100203035336/http://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0001/00012181-donkey-kong-country-3-test.htm |title=Test de ''Donkey Kong Country 3 : Dixie Kong's Double Trouble'' sur Super Nintendo |language=French |author=Bigsusha |website=[[Jeuxvideo.com]] |date=28 January 2010 |archive-date=3 February 2010 |access-date=13 June 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| NLife = 9/10<ref name="NLife">{{cite web |last1=Van Duyn |first1=Marcel |title=Review: ''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'' |url=http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/vc/donkey_kong_country_3_dixie_kongs_double_trouble_snes |website=Nintendo Life |publisher=Gamer Network |access-date=20 May 2016 |date=25 December 2007 |archive-date=26 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231026202647/https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/vc/donkey_kong_country_3_dixie_kongs_double_trouble_snes |url-status=live}}</ref>
}}
Retrospective assessments of the game remained positive. Lucas Thomas of ''[[IGN]]'' opined that ''Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!''{{'}}s visuals were not as awe-inspiring as the pre-rendered CGI of ''Donkey Kong Country'', but admitted that they "still looked great" for the third installment. He thought compared to the other ''Donkey Kong Country'' games, the music in ''Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!'' stands out the least, although he stated that it was an "impressive effort".<ref name=IGN/> Marcel van Duyn of ''[[Nintendo Life]]'' praised the game's visuals and detailed backgrounds, stating that they were "fantastic" for the SNES. He commented that the soundtrack was not as "legendary" as it was in its previous instalment, but still admitted that it had some "great" tracks. In addition, Van Duyn criticised the Game Boy Advance's port for replacing all of the original music with new compositions.<ref name=NLife/> In 2018, [[Complex Networks|Complex]] listed the game number 65 in their The Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Knight|first=Rich|date=April 30, 2018|title=The Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time|url=https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/the-100-best-super-nintendo-games/|access-date=2022-01-31|website=Complex|language=en|archive-date=2022-01-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220109005057/https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/the-100-best-super-nintendo-games/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''IGN'' ranked ''Donkey Kong Country 3'' 58th on their "Top 100 SNES Games of All Time" and described the game as a satisfying conclusion to Rare's cycle of 16-bit platformers.<ref>{{Citation |title=Top 100 SNES Games of All Time - IGN.com |url=https://www.ign.com/lists/top-100-snes-games |language=en |website=[[IGN]] |access-date=2022-07-01 |archive-date=2012-01-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120123081606/http://www.ign.com/top/snes-games/31 |url-status=live }}</ref>

== Notes ==
{{noteslist}}
{{clear}}

== References ==
{{Reflist|2}}

=== Bibliography ===
{{refbegin}}
* {{cite book | year=1996 | last=Rare | title=Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble! ''instruction manual'' | pages=1–27 | publisher=[[Nintendo]]}}
{{refend}}

==External links==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/19980705000419/http://rare.co.uk/recent/games/dkc3 Official website]
* {{MobyGames|/6588/donkey-kong-country-3-dixie-kongs-double-trouble/}}
{{Wikiquote|Donkey Kong Country}}

{{Donkey Kong}}
{{Rare}}
{{Portal bar|Video games|1990s|United Kingdom}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:1996 video games]]
[[Category:2005 video games]]
[[Category:Cooperative video games]]
[[Category:Donkey Kong platform games]]
[[Category:Donkey Kong Country]]
[[Category:Game Boy Advance games]]
[[Category:Rare (company) games]]
[[Category:Super Nintendo Entertainment System games]]
[[Category:Virtual Console games]]
[[Category:Virtual Console games for Wii U]]
[[Category:Sequel video games]]
[[Category:Video games scored by Eveline Fischer Novakovic]]
[[Category:Video games about children]]
[[Category:Video games featuring female protagonists]]
[[Category:Video games set on fictional islands]]
[[Category:Video games with pre-rendered 3D graphics]]
[[Category:Video games with digitized sprites]]
[[Category:Multiplayer and single-player video games]]
[[Category:Video games scored by David Wise]]
[[Category:Christmas video games]]
[[Category:Nintendo Classics games]]
[[Category:Virtual Console games for Nintendo 3DS]]
[[Category:Video games developed in the United Kingdom]]